Not all the gear, and very little idea ….

[Jules Lane]

As some of you know I am planning to have a look at the Alps this year and see if they are any good. So I am looking for educated, constructive and specific suggestions on footwear;

1. I already have slippers and sandals but apparently I will need to buy a ‘suitable’ pair of boots. Here’s what they need to do;
A/ Be B2s. I am told I will need to cross odd corners of glaciers and go on something called the Comical Arete. Front pointing up 80 degree north faces is not in the plan.
B/ Be suitable for scrambling and winter hill walking in the UK
C/ I believe that something at the softer end of B2 that could take a C1 or C2 crampon would be ideal
D/ La Sportiva or Scarpa would be good for reasons that I don’t need to bore you with.
E/ Obviously they will have to look very cool. This cannot be understated.

2. Is anyone willing to lend me a suitable pair of crampons for such boots? They won’t get over-used but may get bent when I trip over.

Thankyou kindly for your assistance. It’s now time for my next injection.

J

• This topic was modified 8 years, 7 months ago by Jules Lane.
• This topic was modified 8 years, 7 months ago by Jules Lane.
• This topic was modified 8 years, 7 months ago by Jules Lane.
• This topic was modified 8 years, 7 months ago by Jules Lane.

[mynyddte]

My mate has some of these and recommends them: http://www.sportiva.com/products/footwear/mountain/trango-s-evo

Apparently they make you feel like a wood nymph and/or a spider

[Chris Blackett]

Jules
I have some crampons which I do not need at present.
Give me a ring when convenient to arrange to check them.
Chris

[Steve Bowker]

Hey Jules, having completed several Alpine trips in them, I can vouch for the La Sportiva Evo S boots, though as with most things alpine its a case of horses for courses and there’s generally no one ideal all round solution;- the Evo’s make great approach boots on dry glaciers and rocky trails and climb o.k. on mid grade rock, though if you’re likely to be in soft snow etc they won’t be very warm, and on loose scree/ rocks maybe wont offer the foot protection you need to avoid bruised toes- the good thing about them is once being carried in your sac while wearing rock boots, you’ll hardly notice they’re there. I’m now on my second pair, despite finding the fit around the ankle a little loose, but if you want a boot that can cross over into steeper snow and ice etc, the North Face Verto’s are supposed to be good. Let me know if you’re still struggling for crampons.

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